Thune Declines to Run for President for 2012

PIERRE, S.D. — U.S. Sen. John Thune of South Dakota has declined to pursue a bid for president next year.

Thune says he'll remain in the Senate, where he's serving his second term.

In a statement on his website, Thune says he appreciates the support he's received from supporters, but believes he's best positioned to "fight for America's future in the trenches of the United States Senate."

Thune was seen as one of several potential challengers to President Barack Obama in the 2012 election.

PIERRE, S.D. U.S. Sen. John Thune of South Dakota has declined to pursue a bid for president next year.Thune says he'll remain in the Senate, where he's serving his second term.In a statement on his website, Thune says he appreciates the support he's received from...